JACKSON, MI -- U.S. House candidate Kurt Haskell and Congressman Tim Walberg brought some lighthearted moments to a candidate forum when Haskell joked that his wife has promised to have a baby if he wins the election.

"I have a lot riding on this campaign," joked Haskell, D-Newport, who is seeking the 7th Congressional District seat held by Walberg, R-Tipton, a social conservative. "This might be the first time my opponent has ever supported birth control in his life."

Walberg responded, "I hope she's very fertile."," Later Walberg revisited the baby issue. "Kurt, have all the kids you want," he said. "I'm delighted about that and hope you have that opportunity to have all the kids you'd like. They change one's life."

"He wants to throw Grandma and Grandpa out on the street," Haskell said of Walberg. "That's what you have from Mr. Walberg."

In the non-debate, question-and-answer forum, Walberg generally did not
immediately respond directly to Haskell's criticisms. But he answered some of the criticism during his closing statement.

"Republicans use Social Security," Walberg said. "Republicans use Medicare. Republicans need health care. Republicans want security of their jobs. Republicans want education that grows and thrives. I happen to be one of those Republicans. I will do everything in my power, as a 61-year-old male, to work for that to remain for myself, my kids and my grandkids, and yours as well.